The beta test of Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn is drawing near (as it will begin in February) and today Director and Producer Naoki Yoshida dropped a new Letter From the Producer with quite a lot of juicy content for those that can't wait.

First of all  we can see quite a few screenshots of the beta build: besides the new splash screen, we can get a few glimpse on the character creation, including the new combinations between race and gender: Highlander Female, Miqo'te Male and Roegadyn Female. We can also see a screenshot from the upcoming benchmark (the one with Ifrit and the score around the bottom). You can find all the snapshots below.

He also talked about the team's visit to Asakusa's Sensōji temple for Hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the new year), and about how he drew an hopefully prophetic omikuji (fortune):

• Much like treasure seen across the vale, the things you desire, no matter how close they seem, are not easily obtained.
• Do not let your heart falter. Patience is the key to reaching your goals.
• Stay focused and consistent in your work. When the time is right, the things you desire will be at hand.
• Remember that you are not alone in your endeavors. Like the phoenix taking flight, you will rise up and find success.

It's sure easy to adapt it to the story of A Realm Reborn isn't it? We'll soon see if it'll become true. One thing is for sure. Yoshida-san really wants the game to be successful, as he dropped a whole 10,000 yen bill into the offering box. That's 110 dollars and change...